I own the Desert X, put 500 street miles on it, just a little off road so far. Day one, tight corners, aggressive riding, tires were amazing, solid traction, bike handles great, didn't miss a beat. Day 2 higher speed sweepers, very predictable, the bike held its line on acceleration, just handles like it doesn't have a 21" front. My background is RC51 and Panigale V4S, street and track. I've also ridden my GSA off road, gravel, sand, etc. I'm an average aggressive rider, not a racer, but have been riding everything from sport to dirt my whole life. This Desert X is a Truley amazing bike. Makes me want to wheelie it and get air riding off road. The GS was more surviving the off road, but dirt roads, it's great. Long trips seem like they'd be very doable with the right set up on the Desert X, but if you have the option, don't give up your GSA or other big confy adventure bike. For all day sport and adventure riding, the desert X is a crazy fun option.
I bought the V2S and so far have been very happy. I know I won't be going off road for any distance and I do prefer the look of the V2S. If I do need to do a short run up a dirt or gravel road I am sure the V2S can handle it with ease. The engine is amazing and the sound even with stock exhaust sound great. The suspension is the costar of the V2S. Even on Dallas rather poorly maintained streets it is smooth and remains planted in curves even with rough road.
I had my 2017 Multi 1200S stolen last year and ended up buying a Desert X, I adored my Multi but the Desert X just makes me grin more especially with the confidence it gives you on the gnarly trails. Plus the seat doesn't push you forward as the multi did for me. Both are great bikes but if you do want to take the odd fire trail or dirt track the Desert X wins hands down
I just tested the X and I am in LOVE. What a fantastic bike. It was so light and nimble at the road, so the tiger 900 that I just tested felt so heavy and stiff. The desert X is a really funny road bike
I looked at both of these bikes and concluded... If I was buying it to ride/tour solo, then the DX wins hands down but the seating is just too cramped for a pillion. So, I chose the V2 Multi as the Mrs and I travel all over Europe in complete comfort and it's brilliant. Having owned three GSA's I thought downsizing to a V2 would be a tad underwhelming but it's far more agile with a similar power-to-weight-ratio. There's more than enough power for real world roads. And sounds fabulous when you give it the berries! The front mudguard is a joke and the standard screen creates too much buffeting on the motorway but both issues can be easily addressed. With either bike you won't be disappointed, so it's all down to 'horses for courses'.
I've been wondering about how these two would compare ever since the Desert X was confirmed. Great video - you answered all my questions. I sat on the Desert X this year when we toured the factory - the Desert X was in the museum entrance area - and its tall, but not too tall for me. Guess I'm getting the Desert X. Thanks.
The Ducati Desert X reminds me of my Yamaha Ténéré 700 which I've just sold. I had it for a year, but always hated the high centre of gravity, so I went back to a sports bike, and I'm much happier. The Ténéré 700 was a great bike, and the CP2 engine was fantastic, but you always felt like you could drop the thing at any moment, especially when fully loaded. The soft suspension didn't help things, either. I got used to it, but I would advise anybody interested in an adventure bike, or any bike for that matter, is to get a demo before parting with their hard-earned cash. I couldn't get a demo at the time because of lockdown, but, I don't think I'll be doing it again.
@@hello-dz8co Yes, it's short for demonstration ride or drive. As in, “I'm interested, can I get a demo?”, the salesman usually looks at you and says no, we haven't got any demo models in stock! 😖
@Tyler Braden I'm afraid those days are gone for me! I have to take it easy, too much wear and tear has taken its toll; bad knee, back, shoulders, etc. One of the main reasons for buying the Yamaha Ténéré 700 was for the longer suspension travel to soak up the bumps, but, the downside as I soon found out was the high centre of gravity. Adventure bikes are great, and you can tons of fun on them, but they're designed to do a specific job. It just became clear to me that it wasn't the bike for me, for many reasons. I wanted to go back to a naked bike, with 17" wheels. I was thinking about a new Triumph Speed Twin 1200, but they're a tad expensive, and the insurance was a joke! Then, I spotted a 2021 Suzuki SV650 for sale at a local dealership, a bike that had gone off my radar for some reason. It was an excellent price, with two owners, but it had zero miles, and had never left the showroom? It turns out, the dealer had pre-registered the bike, then they sold it to an 82-year-old who thought he was still 22! When he came to pick it up, the dealer realised it was too much for him. They tested him out on a 125cc training bike, and he fell off three times, so they cancelled the sale because he would've killed himself! So, I went to see it, got some more money off, plus a servicing deal, picked it up two days later, and I've had a smile on my face ever since! What a great bike; very quick, and handles really well even with the standard old style right way up forks fitted. I've carried out a few mods and fitted a knock-off Yoshimura Alpha exhaust, which looks fantastic and sounds epic! I sold the Yamaha Ténéré 700 very quickly and didn't lose that much, and I've fitted a rack to my SV650, so I can even use all my Givi top boxes when needed. While I was in the dealership I had a look at a Kawasaki Z900RS in Candy tone Blue, and what a bike that is, it may be one for the future. 👍
Good to read you experience. I keep looking at reviews for T7 ‘s aprillia touregs and other tall bikes but the reality is I’m 5,7 and hate anything that feels vague and top heavy. I should just keep my gen 1 rsvr and 750F1 and get a wee trials bike for some dirty fun.
@@paulred158 This style of bike was designed for the Paris-Dakar Rally and desert terrain, so it's the nature of the beast, they're all going to be top-heavy. But, let's be honest, most bikers will never venture off-road with their very expensive "adventure" bike; a campsite maybe, but never off-road! They'll use them for touring, because you can load them up, they have an excellent view of the road ahead, some weather protection, and a great road presence. But, why not get something that's built for the job, which has more weather protection, is far more comfortable, usually comes with a better dash, and is a lot easier to move around - like a touring bike! Or, at least take a look at the BMW R1250GS, arguably the best adventure bike out there, which has a lower centre of gravity due to the boxer engine layout. I'm 6' 2", and even I found the Yamaha Ténéré 700 a handful at times, especially on uneven or slippy ground, and that could be anywhere! And, those large wheels with big knobbly tyres, can make it difficult to move a large heavy bike about, as they dig-in and grip, even on rough tarmac. You also had to be really careful about where you placed your feet, and your front wheel needed to be dead straight coming to a stop. If the road dropped away for any reason; a sunken road, a steep camber, or you put your foot in a pothole, those few inches difference were enough to overbalance the bike, and once it goes, you're not stopping a Ténéré 700 hitting the deck! Riding an adventure bike is a lot different from riding a sports bike with slick 17" wheels, a lower seat height, and with most of its weight down low; it's a far better balanced bike. I had a few scary moments when I first started riding my Yamaha Ténéré 700, but I soon got used to it. If I was going off-road, I'd buy a good, second-hand, off-road bike, maybe something like a Kawasaki KX450, or a KTM 250 SX-F; nice and light with a kerb weight of about 108-110kgs. In the end you'll have a lot more fun, because picking up a big heavy bike all day long is no fun at all! 👍
I’ve owned almost every Multi since they were first released in 2007. The V2 Multi is the Goldilocks’ Multi imho, but i find myself wanting more options as i explore the diversity of the North American landscape, so will roll with the Africa Twin as my next touring bike. I like the option of doing serious gravel and dirt fire roads when and if required.
Street bikes have always been my thang for many years, not a fan of Adv,s ( other than may be the Uber expensive Multi Pykes Peak )but I do love the looks of the Desert X. Won’t be trading my MT10 anytime soon but it would be the latest addition to my dream garage. Great test as always Bob👍
Go out ad put miles on one you will be hooked rode the street on 13 different harleys through the 50 years I've been riding traded a softail two years ago for a used bmw GS now i cant stop riding it and yes i do alot of off road jus saying
Even if at first off-road isn't on the table right now, I'd still want the Desert X more. More so for the looks and the added bonus of being able to off-road.
The price difference gets more substantial when you factor in V2S price which comes with skyhook suspension. And the Desert X is top of the range at the moment not the one you take when you can’t afford the big one, which seems more attractive to my eyes.
The multi is a cracking bike for touring, i did 19 hours on mine stopping for fuel and food only. The desert x is a good looking bike, but I know I'd regret the downgrade on the road side of things. If I went off road a lot it would for sure make me think twice.
I think the desert X is a more all around capable bike.. With road tires you can ride pretty fast even with a 21 inch front wheel. Plus; you have that feeling you talked about : you CAN go every where. This is why I love my africa twin. And trust me it's VERY funny in the twisties.
Major advantage that no one has mentioned is you can turn off wheelie control whilst keeping TC on ... on the Des X . You can't do that on the multi V2 . I've sold my1290 sas for the x . 4 yr warranty too.
Excellent review. I think I would go for the V2S mainly because even though I live in the American Southwest, I wouldn’t be off-roading much. Also, THE SEAT HEIGHT!!!! I’m barely 5-6 and have always had issues with buying an ADV with a big engine due to the bikes height and my wee stubby legs! 😂😂😂 Cheers, MB! 🙌🏾
I'm 5'9" (29" inside leg) the V2 is doable - but not comfortably low - flat footing is not a confidence thing - it is a tight u turn thing and a holding the bike when the pillion gets on thing and a stopping in an unfamiliar place (especially off road) thing. 830mm is just too high for general purpose motorcycling. Footrests can be lower - few road riders ever drag footrests or stand in real life
Weird, I literally test rode both of these today! I went in only planning to test ride the Desert X but did both because, while I love everything on paper with the X - and adore it's looks - I ultimately felt uncomfortable, as a shorter rider, with the seat height. I tried the V2S as a comparison and immediately felt more comfortable / confident on it. That said, both were tested on road only and as you said, the X is really meant for off-road so it's an unfair test. I'm still undecided: heart says DesertX, mind says V2S.
If you get used to the off road technique of holding the bike in the crook of one knee over the saddle with the other leg on the ground, you can banish the fear of dropping the bike altogether. Go with your heart - unless you’re not planning to stray off the tarmac. 😆
Owned a DesertX for a year, obviously great off road and good on back road pavement. NOT good on highway high speed, very unstable! I went to a V2S with spoked wheels for light off road and better on road and touring capability than the DX.
The skyhook suspension is great on the Multi until it shits the bed and you have to ride in limp mode 300 miles from your house (top speed around 40mph), if you get the Multi get the base model.
Skyhook is terribly limiting when it comes to setting up the bike for a heavier rider. No options for heavier springs or revalving. I ride and love my MS950S, but really wish I could get the suspension sorted for my weight.
Desert X would be my pick. I wonder if you could use the top mounted hard case only with the aux tank. If an aftermarket designed side hard cases with the aux, I’m sure they’d sell like hotcakes.
Deert X is what I like more and I would think that Ducati did a great job. Unfortunately If I'm not wrong is quite heavy, at least more than I was expecting, as his wet weight is 220kg., so my choice is KTM 690 Enduro R, that is a completely different bike, so I'm not comparing them. Probably there will be news in other brands, so let's see. Thank you for your video and the info. Very interesting as usual. I don't remember whether or not you talked about the weight though, but in my opinion that is pretty important.
I have a 2019 690 Enduro and consider it my lightweight adventure bike. I am interested in the DesertX as more a traveling adventure bike but with some off-road capability. Yes 220kg is on the heavy side but still probably 25kg than the GS, KTM 1290, etc. A proper test ride is in order.
I will totally disagree about your comments about the tires between the two. The Rally STR is a better tire on road, as well as off road. I ride a 950S and the trail II's were absolutely horrible on the road. Super heavy slow turn in. The STR changes directions faster, has better grip on road and oozes confidence on road
Just bought a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R because Ducati take for ever to deliver on a new model but mostly because the air filter on the Desert X is not designed to be cleaned easy so if you do go off road and get a little dirty you'll require removal of the tank and other just to clean the air filter thats really the life of the motor. Ktm is an easy pic over the Ducati Desert X.
I'd pick the base V2 as it is the best bang for the buck. I don't ride off-road and would never do with a beautiful Ducati anyway... I don't need the electronic gizmos.. No brainer for me...
I am waiting for the MV Augusta Lucky Explorer 9.5 and Benelli TRK 800 to see the price and feature differences, but between those two Desert X feels like nice extension to my UrbanEnduro :)
I just rode both back to back on 40 minute rides, same course, out here at Byron Bay (down under). The roads varied from twisties, to open sweeping bends, half bitumen and half varying from loose stone/gravel to bumpy bitumen (potholes and bumps - which I deliberately chose to ride over 😂). The DX won hands down. It was interesting as both are the same engine. However tuned slightly differently. The DX soaked up the bumps (due to the suspension) and was as capable as the V2 around the bends (if not better). Power from the V2 sure slightly more top end and stability but seriously barely any difference really. Given the DX will go off-road it’s an amazing bike on road, and equal (if not better imo) than the V2 multi. The only main difference is the seat for long rides, the multi sits better for road obviously is about the only advantage it has, also the landscape (and bright) screen, which I prefer. Otherwise Ducati have created an absolute killa first adventure bike. I hope they keep tweaking it with future generations. Defs excited to get ones
Prefer the looks of the Desert X but I'm a shortie, and I don't do off-road, so the V2S would be my choice. It's probably going to be my next bike in '23.
As a Multistrada V2 owner (aka the 950) I finally saw my biggest beef with my bike addressed with the Desert X at the (7:03) mark - removable rear pegs that are separate from the exhaust hanger THANK GOD!!! The facet that I have to haul around a set of pegs for a passenger i'll never have, irritates me since removing them is a cleaner, visually appealing look.
Having ridden in motor X racing when I was younger I quite like the appeal of the dessert X , I’m wondering though if Ducati called this bike dessert cross,? because as as you see at the beginning I wrote moto cross with an X as this is how we used to write moto cross if you get my drift… as it’s intended for on & off road use ? Desert X doesn’t make sense?
hi im thinking of trading in my kawasaki gtr 1400 and buying one of these 2 for a v4s/desert x but it would be fun with a comparison of v4s,desert x on your channel. Ducati Desert X vs Multistrada V4S: Which Is Better uppcomming test?
Desert x is a beautiful bike, but it's late to launch in my country... so I ended up buying the r1250gs That pod is like saying 'you can't have it all' 🤣love the design anyways
The Desert X is a gorgeous looking bike, I wish manufacturers made more of these 90s dakar style looking bikes. Good to see if has off-road potential but at 220 kg wet weight, who are you kidding.... unless you are a professional, you are only taking this on gravel tracks or have deep pockets to fix a fairing on a £14k ducati everytime it is dropped. Let's face it, this is a poser bike that will spend 99% of its time on the road.... but I still want one.
Plz compare between ( ducati multistrada v4s vs ducati desert x vs bmw r 1250 gs adventure vs triumph tiger 1200 gt pro explorer & rally pro explorer ) ... And also plz compare between ( bmw R 18 transcontinental highest specs vs honda gold wing dct with airbag ) ... Base by ur review, i will buy 1 adv motorcycle and 1 touring motorcycle at the end ... Thx a lot mate ... Everybody that wants to see it too, plz gives thumb up ...
Amazing idea. Awesome review. Sorry Motobob. i will reccomend one more channel to all other Motobob subcribers who are also Ducati fanboys - Nothing to prove with reviews of Multi V4S, Multi V2 and off course Desert X. Sorry one more time, Motobob. Aprreciated.
Why have Ducati dumbed down the Multistrada? The black pastic nose looks like a wheelie bin and single sided swinging arm is only available withthe larger engine. The V2 is the old 900cc version. My 1260 was £15k in 2019. Today I would need to spend £24k for the same level of trim. Ducati is price gouging. Availability is limited in UK but not EU - this is not the LHD/RHD issue (obv on a moto) but for all you who voted for brexit - you own this.
Like the look of the Desert X head lights ✨️ and the screen design, V Twin not sure about the fairing front end on V twin, The only thing that put me off Ducati in the past was reliability and maintenance cost 😒 that was the late 1970s and 1980s, not sure how the compare now,
My Ducati is more expensive to maintain than my Hondas. Also, Italian bikes are designed primarily for pleasure rather than reliability. It doesn't mean that they are not reliable but they are certainly not as reliable or easy to maintain as most of Japanese bikes. I had about 40 Japanese bikes and only 2 Italian ones. Most reliable bike for me were the Hondas. No surprise here.
@@mototomcambodia I've had 1 Gilera many years ago didn't have it long had 2 Honda motorcycles OK nothing special, 1 Triumph very little use few miles in the sunshine, 8 suzuki motocyes 1 bad one I bought it second hand sold it within 8 weeks, now SX KAWASAKI 1000 bought it new 2017 one fault I wasn't happy with warped front discs started at 2 years old first mot reported it Kawasaki didn't think they should replace them 2 year warranty had passed, I emailed Kawasaki UK several times said about the suzuki motocyes no problem left on the pit / coalmine in all weather snow ice road all year round never failed ,in the end they wanted photos of the bike so the could see the condition milage was 6500 , and the service history from the dealer, hard work but paid half in the end , They was reluctant to do that,
The biggest difference in maintenance costs comes down to the valve service interval. 18K miles for that Ducati engine, whereas the T700 from Yamaha is 26k miles. Safety recalls happen, but they happened on my Yamaha and Triumph too. But I've owned Japanese, British and Italian bikes. Japanese bikes just don't do it for me anymore. Doing my own work on my bikes, the fit, finish, and engineering is great on Japanese bikes, but it's also boring.
Id have to stick w/ my V4S Multi cause i run from the cops on it. Id have a hard time w/ this i think. Sure i could take it into the desert to run from the cops but being the desert you leave a huge plumb behind you so they will get you w/ that. But i do real off roading on my V4S too, moto camping to boot. I do it all. This fall i plan to track it.
I asked to see if i could swap out my front wheel with the smaller 17 for when i want to track it or im just doing road use while i can have the stock front with a 50/50 split but i was told the bike cannot swap the front wheel size due to the forks. BOO So i stick with the 80/20 OEM Pirelli's which do a good job in the dirt.
30 seconds in and I can guess what you are going to say: If you're going in the dirt, then the X...blah, blah, blah. The X can do both so it wins. Am I close?
I really wish Ducati would just accept that the multi is a sport touring bike and give it a 17” front wheel by default. Anyone who is planning to take it off road is in a serious minority and they can buy some upgrade package with a spoked 19” if they want. Just give up on trying to pretend that the multi is an off-roader
Bought the V2S, the Desert X is another bike for wannabe off roaders, too tall for me too…shame I’m still waiting for it to be built four months after it was ordered🥲
Oh dear,that’s not good news. Ordered mine end of May. Dealer reckons no delays. Me thinks he may not be right if your experience is anything to go by. Amazing bike and guess it’ll be worth the wait 😁
Desert X is my pick, just on looks alone. I think it's the best looking new bike out there!!
I own the Desert X, put 500 street miles on it, just a little off road so far. Day one, tight corners, aggressive riding, tires were amazing, solid traction, bike handles great, didn't miss a beat. Day 2 higher speed sweepers, very predictable, the bike held its line on acceleration, just handles like it doesn't have a 21" front. My background is RC51 and Panigale V4S, street and track. I've also ridden my GSA off road, gravel, sand, etc. I'm an average aggressive rider, not a racer, but have been riding everything from sport to dirt my whole life. This Desert X is a Truley amazing bike. Makes me want to wheelie it and get air riding off road. The GS was more surviving the off road, but dirt roads, it's great. Long trips seem like they'd be very doable with the right set up on the Desert X, but if you have the option, don't give up your GSA or other big confy adventure bike. For all day sport and adventure riding, the desert X is a crazy fun option.
You can probably run soft saddle bags over the fuel pod which would be ideal for an off-roader than bulky aluminium saddle luggages.
I bought the V2S and so far have been very happy. I know I won't be going off road for any distance and I do prefer the look of the V2S. If I do need to do a short run up a dirt or gravel road I am sure the V2S can handle it with ease. The engine is amazing and the sound even with stock exhaust sound great. The suspension is the costar of the V2S. Even on Dallas rather poorly maintained streets it is smooth and remains planted in curves even with rough road.
Take a new v2s up a gravel track nooooooooooo!
I had my 2017 Multi 1200S stolen last year and ended up buying a Desert X, I adored my Multi but the Desert X just makes me grin more especially with the confidence it gives you on the gnarly trails. Plus the seat doesn't push you forward as the multi did for me. Both are great bikes but if you do want to take the odd fire trail or dirt track the Desert X wins hands down
I just tested the X and I am in LOVE. What a fantastic bike. It was so light and nimble at the road, so the tiger 900 that I just tested felt so heavy and stiff. The desert X is a really funny road bike
That Desert X is one of the coolest looking bikes! Great vid:)
I looked at both of these bikes and concluded... If I was buying it to ride/tour solo, then the DX wins hands down but the seating is just too cramped for a pillion. So, I chose the V2 Multi as the Mrs and I travel all over Europe in complete comfort and it's brilliant. Having owned three GSA's I thought downsizing to a V2 would be a tad underwhelming but it's far more agile with a similar power-to-weight-ratio. There's more than enough power for real world roads. And sounds fabulous when you give it the berries! The front mudguard is a joke and the standard screen creates too much buffeting on the motorway but both issues can be easily addressed. With either bike you won't be disappointed, so it's all down to 'horses for courses'.
I've been wondering about how these two would compare ever since the Desert X was confirmed. Great video - you answered all my questions. I sat on the Desert X this year when we toured the factory - the Desert X was in the museum entrance area - and its tall, but not too tall for me. Guess I'm getting the Desert X. Thanks.
The Ducati Desert X reminds me of my Yamaha Ténéré 700 which I've just sold. I had it for a year, but always hated the high centre of gravity, so I went back to a sports bike, and I'm much happier. The Ténéré 700 was a great bike, and the CP2 engine was fantastic, but you always felt like you could drop the thing at any moment, especially when fully loaded. The soft suspension didn't help things, either. I got used to it, but I would advise anybody interested in an adventure bike, or any bike for that matter, is to get a demo before parting with their hard-earned cash. I couldn't get a demo at the time because of lockdown, but, I don't think I'll be doing it again.
Demo you mean test drive?
@@hello-dz8co Yes, it's short for demonstration ride or drive. As in, “I'm interested, can I get a demo?”, the salesman usually looks at you and says no, we haven't got any demo models in stock! 😖
@Tyler Braden I'm afraid those days are gone for me! I have to take it easy, too much wear and tear has taken its toll; bad knee, back, shoulders, etc. One of the main reasons for buying the Yamaha Ténéré 700 was for the longer suspension travel to soak up the bumps, but, the downside as I soon found out was the high centre of gravity. Adventure bikes are great, and you can tons of fun on them, but they're designed to do a specific job. It just became clear to me that it wasn't the bike for me, for many reasons. I wanted to go back to a naked bike, with 17" wheels. I was thinking about a new Triumph Speed Twin 1200, but they're a tad expensive, and the insurance was a joke!
Then, I spotted a 2021 Suzuki SV650 for sale at a local dealership, a bike that had gone off my radar for some reason. It was an excellent price, with two owners, but it had zero miles, and had never left the showroom? It turns out, the dealer had pre-registered the bike, then they sold it to an 82-year-old who thought he was still 22! When he came to pick it up, the dealer realised it was too much for him. They tested him out on a 125cc training bike, and he fell off three times, so they cancelled the sale because he would've killed himself! So, I went to see it, got some more money off, plus a servicing deal, picked it up two days later, and I've had a smile on my face ever since!
What a great bike; very quick, and handles really well even with the standard old style right way up forks fitted. I've carried out a few mods and fitted a knock-off Yoshimura Alpha exhaust, which looks fantastic and sounds epic! I sold the Yamaha Ténéré 700 very quickly and didn't lose that much, and I've fitted a rack to my SV650, so I can even use all my Givi top boxes when needed. While I was in the dealership I had a look at a Kawasaki Z900RS in Candy tone Blue, and what a bike that is, it may be one for the future. 👍
Good to read you experience. I keep looking at reviews for T7 ‘s aprillia touregs and other tall bikes but the reality is I’m 5,7 and hate anything that feels vague and top heavy. I should just keep my gen 1 rsvr and 750F1 and get a wee trials bike for some dirty fun.
@@paulred158 This style of bike was designed for the Paris-Dakar Rally and desert terrain, so it's the nature of the beast, they're all going to be top-heavy. But, let's be honest, most bikers will never venture off-road with their very expensive "adventure" bike; a campsite maybe, but never off-road! They'll use them for touring, because you can load them up, they have an excellent view of the road ahead, some weather protection, and a great road presence. But, why not get something that's built for the job, which has more weather protection, is far more comfortable, usually comes with a better dash, and is a lot easier to move around - like a touring bike! Or, at least take a look at the BMW R1250GS, arguably the best adventure bike out there, which has a lower centre of gravity due to the boxer engine layout.
I'm 6' 2", and even I found the Yamaha Ténéré 700 a handful at times, especially on uneven or slippy ground, and that could be anywhere! And, those large wheels with big knobbly tyres, can make it difficult to move a large heavy bike about, as they dig-in and grip, even on rough tarmac. You also had to be really careful about where you placed your feet, and your front wheel needed to be dead straight coming to a stop. If the road dropped away for any reason; a sunken road, a steep camber, or you put your foot in a pothole, those few inches difference were enough to overbalance the bike, and once it goes, you're not stopping a Ténéré 700 hitting the deck! Riding an adventure bike is a lot different from riding a sports bike with slick 17" wheels, a lower seat height, and with most of its weight down low; it's a far better balanced bike. I had a few scary moments when I first started riding my Yamaha Ténéré 700, but I soon got used to it.
If I was going off-road, I'd buy a good, second-hand, off-road bike, maybe something like a Kawasaki KX450, or a KTM 250 SX-F; nice and light with a kerb weight of about 108-110kgs. In the end you'll have a lot more fun, because picking up a big heavy bike all day long is no fun at all! 👍
I’ve owned almost every Multi since they were first released in 2007. The V2 Multi is the Goldilocks’ Multi imho, but i find myself wanting more options as i explore the diversity of the North American landscape, so will roll with the Africa Twin as my next touring bike. I like the option of doing serious gravel and dirt fire roads when and if required.
Multistrada V2S is my pick. Its road speed, nimbleness, and smoothness is unmatched.
Street bikes have always been my thang for many years, not a fan of Adv,s ( other than may be the Uber expensive Multi Pykes Peak )but I do love the looks of the Desert X. Won’t be trading my MT10 anytime soon but it would be the latest addition to my dream garage. Great test as always Bob👍
Go out ad put miles on one you will be hooked rode the street on 13 different harleys through the 50 years I've been riding traded a softail two years ago for a used bmw GS now i cant stop riding it and yes i do alot of off road jus saying
Even if at first off-road isn't on the table right now, I'd still want the Desert X more. More so for the looks and the added bonus of being able to off-road.
If u dont intend to go offroad, its not a bonus but a drawback.
The DesertX with the pods looks soooooo good.
But I’ll take a multi if I had to choose.
The price difference gets more substantial when you factor in V2S price which comes with skyhook suspension. And the Desert X is top of the range at the moment not the one you take when you can’t afford the big one, which seems more attractive to my eyes.
The multi is a cracking bike for touring, i did 19 hours on mine stopping for fuel and food only. The desert x is a good looking bike, but I know I'd regret the downgrade on the road side of things. If I went off road a lot it would for sure make me think twice.
At 5”6, there’s only 1 choice, I LOVE my v2s!
I think the desert X is a more all around capable bike.. With road tires you can ride pretty fast even with a 21 inch front wheel.
Plus; you have that feeling you talked about : you CAN go every where. This is why I love my africa twin. And trust me it's VERY funny in the twisties.
Major advantage that no one has mentioned is you can turn off wheelie control whilst keeping TC on ... on the Des X . You can't do that on the multi V2 .
I've sold my1290 sas for the x .
4 yr warranty too.
Excellent review. I think I would go for the V2S mainly because even though I live in the American Southwest, I wouldn’t be off-roading much. Also, THE SEAT HEIGHT!!!! I’m barely 5-6 and have always had issues with buying an ADV with a big engine due to the bikes height and my wee stubby legs! 😂😂😂
Cheers, MB! 🙌🏾
I'm 5'9" (29" inside leg) the V2 is doable - but not comfortably low - flat footing is not a confidence thing - it is a tight u turn thing and a holding the bike when the pillion gets on thing and a stopping in an unfamiliar place (especially off road) thing. 830mm is just too high for general purpose motorcycling.
Footrests can be lower - few road riders ever drag footrests or stand in real life
Some Mosko moto bags would probably work with the extra fuel pods.
Weird, I literally test rode both of these today! I went in only planning to test ride the Desert X but did both because, while I love everything on paper with the X - and adore it's looks - I ultimately felt uncomfortable, as a shorter rider, with the seat height. I tried the V2S as a comparison and immediately felt more comfortable / confident on it. That said, both were tested on road only and as you said, the X is really meant for off-road so it's an unfair test. I'm still undecided: heart says DesertX, mind says V2S.
I think you'd get used to the height within a month. Go with your heart
If you get used to the off road technique of holding the bike in the crook of one knee over the saddle with the other leg on the ground, you can banish the fear of dropping the bike altogether. Go with your heart - unless you’re not planning to stray off the tarmac. 😆
V2S looks like a more sensible machine. Imagine calling Ducatis sensible... But the DesertX is much more offroad focused.
once u start exploring dirt roads it might become addicting!!!! haha go with your heart.
Owned a DesertX for a year, obviously great off road and good on back road pavement. NOT good on highway high speed, very unstable! I went to a V2S with spoked wheels for light off road and better on road and touring capability than the DX.
I call the ride on my multi like a magic carpet, the skyhook is a gamechanger
The skyhook suspension is great on the Multi until it shits the bed and you have to ride in limp mode 300 miles from your house (top speed around 40mph), if you get the Multi get the base model.
another great review!
The V2S looks amazing but how does it compare with the KTM 890 SMT?
Skyhook is terribly limiting when it comes to setting up the bike for a heavier rider. No options for heavier springs or revalving. I ride and love my MS950S, but really wish I could get the suspension sorted for my weight.
Desert X would be my pick. I wonder if you could use the top mounted hard case only with the aux tank. If an aftermarket designed side hard cases with the aux, I’m sure they’d sell like hotcakes.
With all that money, I would get a CB500X load it with all extras/upgrades and go on tour around the world! 😁
However the DesertX looks really great!
Deert X is what I like more and I would think that Ducati did a great job. Unfortunately If I'm not wrong is quite heavy, at least more than I was expecting, as his wet weight is 220kg., so my choice is KTM 690 Enduro R, that is a completely different bike, so I'm not comparing them. Probably there will be news in other brands, so let's see. Thank you for your video and the info. Very interesting as usual. I don't remember whether or not you talked about the weight though, but in my opinion that is pretty important.
I have a 2019 690 Enduro and consider it my lightweight adventure bike. I am interested in the DesertX as more a traveling adventure bike but with some off-road capability. Yes 220kg is on the heavy side but still probably 25kg than the GS, KTM 1290, etc. A proper test ride is in order.
Love the DesertX headlight!
I will totally disagree about your comments about the tires between the two. The Rally STR is a better tire on road, as well as off road. I ride a 950S and the trail II's were absolutely horrible on the road. Super heavy slow turn in. The STR changes directions faster, has better grip on road and oozes confidence on road
Just bought a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R because Ducati take for ever to deliver on a new model but mostly because the air filter on the Desert X is not designed to be cleaned easy so if you do go off road and get a little dirty you'll require removal of the tank and other just to clean the air filter thats really the life of the motor. Ktm is an easy pic over the Ducati Desert X.
Two wheeled Jeep is a great way to describe the Desert X.
I'd pick the base V2 as it is the best bang for the buck. I don't ride off-road and would never do with a beautiful Ducati anyway... I don't need the electronic gizmos.. No brainer for me...
If I had a Desert X I’d have to have a Storm Trooper suit to go with it.
You got that right. I’m not a sticker guy but for the Desert X, I would plaster it with some.
I am waiting for the MV Augusta Lucky Explorer 9.5 and Benelli TRK 800 to see the price and feature differences, but between those two Desert X feels like nice extension to my UrbanEnduro :)
Chinese ?
@@johnmartin6854 what bikes are not build from chineese parts now :)
Desert X vs Scrambler XE please, for all the right reasons :)
I just rode both back to back on 40 minute rides, same course, out here at Byron Bay (down under). The roads varied from twisties, to open sweeping bends, half bitumen and half varying from loose stone/gravel to bumpy bitumen (potholes and bumps - which I deliberately chose to ride over 😂). The DX won hands down. It was interesting as both are the same engine. However tuned slightly differently. The DX soaked up the bumps (due to the suspension) and was as capable as the V2 around the bends (if not better).
Power from the V2 sure slightly more top end and stability but seriously barely any difference really. Given the DX will go off-road it’s an amazing bike on road, and equal (if not better imo) than the V2 multi.
The only main difference is the seat for long rides, the multi sits better for road obviously is about the only advantage it has, also the landscape (and bright) screen, which I prefer.
Otherwise Ducati have created an absolute killa first adventure bike. I hope they keep tweaking it with future generations. Defs excited to get ones
I guess would go for Desert X as there are other good options then Multistrada for road touring.
I'd choose the V2S because the gearing on the DesertX is just too short in the first 3 gears for road use.
Thank you clarifies things for me. Hey, could you please share what jacket you’re wearing in this video looks really cool.
I like the looks of both but the X would be my choice
Prefer the looks of the Desert X but I'm a shortie, and I don't do off-road, so the V2S would be my choice. It's probably going to be my next bike in '23.
As a Multistrada V2 owner (aka the 950) I finally saw my biggest beef with my bike addressed with the Desert X at the (7:03) mark - removable rear pegs that are separate from the exhaust hanger THANK GOD!!! The facet that I have to haul around a set of pegs for a passenger i'll never have, irritates me since removing them is a cleaner, visually appealing look.
Having ridden in motor X racing when I was younger I quite like the appeal of the dessert X , I’m wondering though if Ducati called this bike dessert cross,? because as as you see at the beginning I wrote moto cross with an X as this is how we used to write moto cross if you get my drift… as it’s intended for on & off road use ? Desert X doesn’t make sense?
I love the look of the X but for that price, I’d go for a Norden 901.
Desert X for me , good video again.
Test drove them both, got the yamaha tenere instead.
They have been designed for a different kind of usage, wrong comparison.
hi im thinking of trading in my kawasaki gtr 1400 and buying one of these 2 for a v4s/desert x but it would be fun with a comparison of v4s,desert x
on your channel.
Ducati Desert X vs Multistrada V4S: Which Is Better uppcomming test?
Desert x is arguably the best looking adventure bike out there in my opinion
The Desert X for more off road focus while the Multi is more on road while both doing the business of Adv.
Picked the Deserted X 👍
Desert x is a beautiful bike, but it's late to launch in my country... so I ended up buying the r1250gs
That pod is like saying 'you can't have it all' 🤣love the design anyways
had a multi and bought a DX - like it better except at highway speeds
I like them both but as Im a shortarse it may not happen for me....I sat on a Hypermoto once which I adore but its still tall....
Did you even test ride these? Seems like specsheet review
Desert X I want it when we get in the USA
Bigest spool and small turbine electric generator in front air scoop, for more electric current
Desert X. It’s dirt roads and trails that tug at my sense of adventure
Did you actually ride both bikes?
oh gosh it would be awesome if the desert x could run side cases with that aux fuel tank. such a shame
The Desert X is a gorgeous looking bike, I wish manufacturers made more of these 90s dakar style looking bikes. Good to see if has off-road potential but at 220 kg wet weight, who are you kidding.... unless you are a professional, you are only taking this on gravel tracks or have deep pockets to fix a fairing on a £14k ducati everytime it is dropped. Let's face it, this is a poser bike that will spend 99% of its time on the road.... but I still want one.
Desert x is senseless bike for England.
Plz compare between ( ducati multistrada v4s vs ducati desert x vs bmw r 1250 gs adventure vs triumph tiger 1200 gt pro explorer & rally pro explorer ) ...
And also plz compare between ( bmw R 18 transcontinental highest specs vs honda gold wing dct with airbag ) ...
Base by ur review, i will buy 1 adv motorcycle and 1 touring motorcycle at the end ...
Thx a lot mate ...
Everybody that wants to see it too, plz gives thumb up ...
A 21 wheel is a must for me. Boring to stop when the road stop! The x dont feel so heavy, Much better than Bmw 850 gs.
Desert X is awesome. What a beauty...
Amazing idea. Awesome review. Sorry Motobob. i will reccomend one more channel to all other Motobob subcribers who are also Ducati fanboys - Nothing to prove with reviews of Multi V4S, Multi V2 and off course Desert X. Sorry one more time, Motobob. Aprreciated.
Why have Ducati dumbed down the Multistrada? The black pastic nose looks like a wheelie bin and single sided swinging arm is only available withthe larger engine. The V2 is the old 900cc version. My 1260 was £15k in 2019. Today I would need to spend £24k for the same level of trim. Ducati is price gouging. Availability is limited in UK but not EU - this is not the LHD/RHD issue (obv on a moto) but for all you who voted for brexit - you own this.
Like the look of the Desert X head lights ✨️
and the screen design,
V Twin not sure about the fairing front end on V twin,
The only thing that put me off Ducati in the past was reliability and maintenance cost 😒 that was the late 1970s and 1980s, not sure how the compare now,
My Ducati is more expensive to maintain than my Hondas. Also, Italian bikes are designed primarily for pleasure rather than reliability. It doesn't mean that they are not reliable but they are certainly not as reliable or easy to maintain as most of Japanese bikes. I had about 40 Japanese bikes and only 2 Italian ones. Most reliable bike for me were the Hondas. No surprise here.
@@mototomcambodia I've had 1 Gilera many years ago didn't have it long had 2 Honda motorcycles OK nothing special, 1 Triumph very little use few miles in the sunshine, 8 suzuki motocyes 1 bad one I bought it second hand sold it within 8 weeks, now SX KAWASAKI 1000 bought it new 2017 one fault I wasn't happy with warped front discs started at 2 years old first mot reported it Kawasaki didn't think they should replace them 2 year warranty had passed, I emailed Kawasaki UK several times said about the suzuki motocyes no problem left on the pit / coalmine in all weather snow ice road all year round never failed ,in the end they wanted photos of the bike so the could see the condition milage was 6500 , and the service history from the dealer, hard work but paid half in the end , They was reluctant to do that,
FYI - The DesertX comes with 4 year warranty as standard in the UK and parts of Europe
The biggest difference in maintenance costs comes down to the valve service interval. 18K miles for that Ducati engine, whereas the T700 from Yamaha is 26k miles. Safety recalls happen, but they happened on my Yamaha and Triumph too. But I've owned Japanese, British and Italian bikes. Japanese bikes just don't do it for me anymore. Doing my own work on my bikes, the fit, finish, and engineering is great on Japanese bikes, but it's also boring.
@@jpow4893 True, I was never boring while repairing the Multistrada whereas my slow Guzzi doesn't want to die and my 30 old Honda never stop running!
Desert x would be my choice
have they announced a price these dragons?
DesertX for many reasons. Plus I’m 193cm so V2s is already out
V2 Multistrada for the win!!!
The Desert X is aimed at the Africa Twin. I'll take a Gen 1 Multi with better tires.
Desert X every day of the week. Beautiful bike….
Desert X any day. 🤩
Hot a v2 for the road. And a proper 450 NOT ducati for offtracks.
Desert x for me
So the Multistrada (Strada is street in Italian) is better on road than the 21" front wheeled DesertX... this is motoring journalism at it's finest.
Desert X sweet bike
Ducati 💥🤙
Would love to see those desert x headlights with some sort of fairing on the xsr900.
Id have to stick w/ my V4S Multi cause i run from the cops on it. Id have a hard time w/ this i think. Sure i could take it into the desert to run from the cops but being the desert you leave a huge plumb behind you so they will get you w/ that. But i do real off roading on my V4S too, moto camping to boot. I do it all. This fall i plan to track it.
I asked to see if i could swap out my front wheel with the smaller 17 for when i want to track it or im just doing road use while i can have the stock front with a 50/50 split but i was told the bike cannot swap the front wheel size due to the forks. BOO So i stick with the 80/20 OEM Pirelli's which do a good job in the dirt.
Yes
I thought the Honda was down on power compared to the Ducati.
🐪 DÉSERT X OF COURSE ! 👊🏽✊🏽✌🏽
V2S for me
V2S - what else? I don't see a choice 😅
I want a multistrada V2 so bad but I'm poor
Because the Multi V2 S is almost exclusively road focused, I think the closer comparison would be between the Multi V2S vs the new Monster...
30 seconds in and I can guess what you are going to say: If you're going in the dirt, then the X...blah, blah, blah. The X can do both so it wins. Am I close?
Desert X every day of the week
DesertX for MB!
The looks Desert X wins retro .
I really wish Ducati would just accept that the multi is a sport touring bike and give it a 17” front wheel by default. Anyone who is planning to take it off road is in a serious minority and they can buy some upgrade package with a spoked 19” if they want. Just give up on trying to pretend that the multi is an off-roader
Bought the V2S, the Desert X is another bike for wannabe off roaders, too tall for me too…shame I’m still waiting for it to be built four months after it was ordered🥲
Oh dear,that’s not good news. Ordered mine end of May. Dealer reckons no delays. Me thinks he may not be right if your experience is anything to go by. Amazing bike and guess it’ll be worth the wait 😁
@@andrew.storriemclean403 Pick up next Friday😀
Awesome 🇰🇪🇰🇪👏👏👏